First in the family: Building a meaningful career in Retirement Services

For Gustavo S., the first step in blazing his career trail was finding the spark. This passion for finance and mentorship has helped guide his journey at Vanguard. Along the way, he’s embraced continuous learning, leadership, and the opportunity to help others grow in their field. Keep reading to learn more about Gustavo’s journey and the impact he’s making at Vanguard.

From farming to finance

I grew up in Fresno, California, an area known for its strong agricultural industry. As the first individual in my immediate family to graduate from college and enter the corporate world, my experience at Vanguard introduced me to the importance of financial literacy.

Given my background, I recognized the finance industry as a critical component in managing both my personal and my family’s financial well-being. I wanted to help others understand the importance of financial literacy, which led me to earn a bachelor’s degree in the field. As graduation approached, I knew I wanted a career with a company that shared my values, which is what drew me to Vanguard.

In my role within Retirement Services, I help clients navigate their investment journeys. Every interaction focuses on helping clients retire with confidence and achieve their financial goals, aligning perfectly with Vanguard’s mission to provide investors with the best chance for success.

These conversations cover a wide range of topics, from the basics of individual retirement accounts, to addressing more complex scenarios. Whether clients are just starting to save for retirement, or enjoying their hard-earned retirement, I’m there to offer support.

Success and satisfaction in client services

There are a few qualities that form a strong foundation for success in a client services role. Essential skills for delivering a positive client experience include communication, active listening, empathy, a desire to help others, patience, and problem-solving abilities.

What I love most about my job is the variety of new challenges each day brings, where I have the chance to help others–whether it’s clients or colleagues at Vanguard.

For example, recently, my team brought different departments together to help a client with an account issue, even though it wasn’t a Vanguard error. We reviewed the client’s scenario and did our best to assist. Ultimately, three departments collaborated to find a solution. After resolving the problem, the client expressed immense gratitude for our efforts and stated that they would continue to be a long-term Vanguard client.

Being part of a team that prioritizes client success is incredibly rewarding. I take pride in guiding clients through their financial journeys, helping them make informed decisions that align with their goals.

The value of meaningful mentorship

I was pleasantly surprised to discover how deeply ingrained the desire to help one another is in Vanguard’s culture. It wasn’t until I joined the company that I truly understood the value in mentorship.

During my time at Vanguard, I’ve had the privilege of working with multiple mentors who have guided me through my transition into the corporate world. They helped me grow both as a professional and a leader. Their support has been invaluable, providing me with insights and advice that have shaped my career path.

Thanks to the mentorship I’ve received, I aim to be a mentor to others and support them as they navigate their own careers at Vanguard.

My journey from Fresno’s agricultural fields to Vanguard has been both enlightening and rewarding. The spark of passion I found for financial literacy during high school and college has grown into a career focused on helping others reach their financial goals. Vanguard’s culture of mentorship and collaboration has played a big role in my growth, and now I’m excited to mentor the next generation of finance professionals.

Each day brings new challenges, and I find real purpose in making a difference—whether it’s through retirement planning or solving complex problems. That sense of impact is what makes my work so meaningful.

-Gustavo S.

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